A handheld shower head allows people to create a spa-like experience from the comfort of home, and is super convenient for spraying water directly where you need it. Not only does it make bathing children and pets easier, but a handheld shower head is particularly useful for the elderly as well.
Finding the best handheld shower head for your bathroom means reading reviews, studying product features, and diving into the ins and outs of available spray patterns and configurations. With the right handheld shower head, washing yourself from head to toe can become a quick, over-and-done with task.
We reviewed dozens of handheld shower heads to identify the best of the best, based on Amazon reviews, how well they performed in operating tests, cost, and other considerations. We narrowed our search down to 5 of the top-rated handheld shower heads homeowners can purchase to ensure a clean and healthy wash routine.Top Pick
Delta 7-Spray Touch Clean Hand Held Shower Head
Powerful spray, a choice of 7 spray patterns, and a lifetime warranty make this a smart choice$46.55 ($1.62 / oz)
We’ve identified the Delta 7-Spray Touch Clean Hand Held Shower Head as the best handheld shower head out there. With a choice of 7 powerful spray patterns, this handheld shower head is one that will keep your daily cleansing routine running smoothly. These benefits allow you to get in and out of the shower in less time.
The 5 Top-Rated Handheld Shower Heads for 2023
| Editor’s Picks | Brand | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Best Overall | Delta 7-Spray Touch Clean Hand Held Shower Head | 4.1 |
| Runner Up | Moen Magnetix Six-Function Handheld Showerhead | 4.3 |
| Best Budget Buy | AquaDance High Pressure 6-Setting 3.5″ Chrome Face Handheld Shower | 4.3 |
| Best High Pressure Handheld Shower Head | AquaDance Premium High Pressure 3-Way Rainfall Combo Showerhead | 4.4 |
| Best Handheld Shower and Showerhead Combo | Hydroluxe 24 Function Ultra-Luxury 3-way 2 in 1 Shower Head/Handheld Shower Combo | 4.2 |
*Ratings are from Amazon at the time of publication and can change
Our Top Pick: Delta 7-Spray Touch Clean Hand Held Shower Head
The Delta 7-Spray Touch Clean Hand Held Shower Head took the top spot on our list of the best handheld shower heads thanks to its strong spray, with a choice of 2 GPM or 2.5 GPM models. A selection of 7 spray patterns provide soothing massage and tension relief, while the choice of two different finishes means it will match nearly any bathroom decor.
Those who purchased and reviewed this handheld shower head appreciated that it was easy to assemble and install, and that the materials were durable. Purchasers liked that the holding clip was very study, and that the mounting style gave a bit of extra height in the shower.
With a price tag of $24, it’s about average as far as the cost of handheld shower heads go, and the quality craftsmanship associated with the brand, as well as the ease of setup and use more than justifies that price. It has a rating of 4.1 on Amazon with more than 3,500 people reviewing it, which we think goes a long way in convincing homeowners to make the investment.
Delta 7-Spray Touch Clean Hand Held Shower Head Key Features:
- Includes a limited lifetime warranty
- Touch-clean spray holes for streamlined cleaning
- Ergonomic handle for increased comfort
Our Runner Up Pick: Moen Magnetix Six-Function Handheld Showerhead
Runner Up
Moen Magnetix Six-Function Handheld Showerhead
Contemporary design in an eco-friendly package, backed by a lifetime warranty$66.15
The Moen Magnetix Six-Function Handheld Showerhead took the runner-up spot on our list of the best handheld shower heads, as it includes fewer spray settings and is more expensive than our top pick. That said, it is just as durable and comes complete with the brand’s signature lifetime warranty, for quality you can trust. The magnetic docking system makes it easy to detach and use this handheld shower head.
Those who purchased and reviewed this handheld shower head appreciated that setup was super easy, and that it looked great in their bathroom. Purchasers with low water pressure found it to be more than adequate, and liked how smooth it was to switch between the 6 spray patterns. The majority of purchasers suggest removing the water restrictors to achieve a stronger spray.
At a cost of about $45, it doesn’t come cheap, but the quality craftsmanship associated with the brand, as well as the ease of setup and use more than justifies that price. It has a rating of 4.3 on Amazon with more than 550 people reviewing it, which we think goes a long way in convincing homeowners to make the investment.
Moen Magnetix Six-Function Handheld Showerhead Key Features:
- Available in a choice of finishes for any bathroom style
- ADA compliant for persons with disabilities
- Meets WaterSense standards for water conservation
Best Budget Pick: AquaDance High Pressure 6-Setting 3.5″ Chrome Face Handheld Shower
Best for Budget
AquaDance High Pressure 6-Setting 3.5
A budget-friendly option with a sleek and simple design$29.99
The AquaDance High Pressure 6-Setting 3.5″ Chrome Face Handheld Shower is an excellent choice for those who want a handheld shower head that won’t break the bank. It offers a choice of 6 spray patterns, and is angle adjustable for added convenience. The ergonomic grip handle makes this handheld shower head comfortable to hold, while the rub-clean jets make cleaning this unit a cinch.
Those who purchased and reviewed this handheld shower head appreciated that the installation instructions were easy to read and follow, and that it looked great once installed. People found the water pressure through this shower head to be more than adequate, and said it was easy to get in and out of the mount.
With a price tag of around $17, this handheld shower head is a solid choice for those looking for a handheld shower head option on a budget. It has a rating of 4.3 on Amazon with more than 2,750 people reviewing it, which we think goes a long way in convincing homeowners that this budget-friendly pick is just as good at keeping them clean as its more expensive counterparts.
AquaDance High Pressure 6-Setting 3.5″ Chrome Face Handheld Shower Key Features:
- Comes complete with a 5-foot super flexible stainless steel shower hose
- Tool-free installation
- Includes a limited lifetime warranty
Best High Pressure Handheld Shower Head: AquaDance Premium High Pressure 3-Way Rainfall Combo Showerhead
Best High Pressure Handheld Shower Head
AquaDance Premium High Pressure 3-Way Rainfall Combo Showerhead
Power and performance in an easy-to-use, ergonomic package$45.99
The AquaDance Premium High Pressure 3-Way Rainfall Combo Showerhead is a great choice for those who like their showers with a lot of water pressure. It is available in a number of different sizes and configurations to suit nearly any need, and boasts a selection of 6 spray settings. It uses a click lever dial for swapping between settings, and the ergonomic grip handle makes this unit easy to hold.
Those who purchased and reviewed this handheld shower head appreciated that it was easy to assemble and install, and that the materials held up well to daily use. People liked the pause feature, as well as the tool-free installation.
At a cost of about $40, it doesn’t come cheap, but the quality craftsmanship associated with the brand, as well as the ease of setup and use more than justifies that price. It has a rating of 4.4 on Amazon with more than 3,150 people reviewing it, which we think goes a long way in convincing homeowners to make the investment.
AquaDance Premium High Pressure 3-Way Rainfall Combo Showerhead Key Features:
- Rub-clean jets for quick and convenient cleanup
- Fits any standard shower arm
- Uses a patented 3-way water diverter to swap between heads
Best Handheld Shower and Showerhead Combo: Hydroluxe 24 Function Ultra-Luxury 3-way 2 in 1 Shower Head/Handheld Shower Combo
Best Handheld Shower and Showerhead Combo
Hydroluxe 24 Function Ultra-Luxury 3-way 2 in 1 Shower Head/Handheld Shower Combo
A 2-in-1 showerhead perfect for adding a touch of luxury at home$54.99
The Hydroluxe 24 Function Ultra-Luxury 3-way 2 in 1 Shower Head/Handheld Shower Combo is a great pick for those looking to add a little touch of spa-like luxury at home. It comes complete with a 5-setting overhead shower head and 5-setting hand shower that can be used separately or together to provide 24 full and combined water flow patterns. The patented 3-way diverter makes swapping between heads a cinch, while the angle-adjustable bracket lets you direct the spray just where you want it.
Those who purchased and reviewed this handheld shower head appreciated that it was easy to install and looked great, especially considering the wallet-friendly price point. People also appreciated that nearly every aspect of this shower head was adjustable, which makes it easy to get just the right flow and spray for your needs.
At a cost of around $25, it’s a surprisingly affordable choice, and the quality craftsmanship associated with the brand, as well as the ease of setup and use more than justifies that price. It has a rating of 4.2 on Amazon with more than 7,300 people reviewing it, which we think goes a long way in convincing homeowners to make the investment.
Hydroluxe 24 Function Ultra-Luxury 3-way 2 in 1 Shower Head/Handheld Shower Combo Key Features:
- Comes complete with a 5-foot super flexible stainless steel shower hose
- Tool-free installation
- Rub-clean jets for convenient cleanup
Who Should Buy a Handheld Shower Head
A handheld shower head is an ideal choice for those who would like the improved comfort and flexibility that a handheld shower head provides compared to traditional fixed models. Many handheld shower heads double as massagers, and offer a choice of settings that allow users to create a spa-like experience from the comfort of home.
They are also convenient for spraying water directly where you need it, such as rinsing soap from hard-to-reach places, or rinsing shampoo from a young child’s hair. This control is especially appreciated by elderly and disabled persons, with models with longer hoses offering the most flexibility. They can even make bathing the family pet a breeze. You’ll also want a sturdy shower caddy to store your bath essentials.
A handheld shower head is also convenient for cleaning your shower, as it’s easy to rinse the walls after your shower or tub come cleaning day. The shut-off valve on the head or handle of most models also allows for water conservation. If you’re updating your bathroom fixtures, you should also check out our review of the best bathroom faucets.Top Pick
Delta 7-Spray Touch Clean Hand Held Shower Head
Powerful spray, a choice of 7 spray patterns, and a lifetime warranty make this a smart choice$46.55 ($1.62 / oz)
Important Features to Consider
Not all handheld shower heads are created equal. A handheld shower head should be easy to install and offer excellent water flow. Here’s what to consider when evaluating the options in search of the best handheld shower head for your bathroom:
- Hose length. Probably one of the most important considerations when it comes to choosing a handheld shower head is the length of the hose. Too short a hose and you won’t be able to reach where you need to, but too long and it could interfere with your use of the tub. A hose length of about 60-72 inches should work well for most homes, but a hose must be at least 84 inches long in order to meet ADA compliance.
- Massage or spray pattern. One of the best features of a handheld shower head is the available massage or spray pattern. Pulse, rain, jet, aeration, and mist are just a few of the options available, and can help to relieve tension as well as aches and pains with ease.
- Water saving. If reducing water and power consumption is important to you, then a water-saving handheld shower head is an excellent option, with some models using as little as 1 gallon per minute (gpm). Many use an aerator and booster to give the impression of dispensing more water than they actually do not. This is also handy in places where low water pressure is a concern, as it can make it seem like the water pressure is better than it actually is.
- Dual spray. Some handheld shower heads are designed with a dual fixed and handheld system, where the mounted cradle unit sprays water along with the handheld unit. Water can be diverted to either or both heads.
- Price point. Finally, consider how much you are willing to spend on a handheld shower head. Handheld shower heads vary in price from $20-$100 or more. Keep an eye out for store sales and discounts or manufacturer’s coupons that can make buying a handheld shower head more affordable.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a handheld shower head and how does it work?
A handheld shower head is a type of shower head that is connected to a long hose, and sits in a cradle when it is not in your hand. While in the cradle, a handheld showerhead operates just like a fixed shower head. However, once taken off the cradle their versatility really shines. They can be used for tasks such as bathing pets, washing children, and even for cleaning the tub and shower walls. Water flows through the hose and out the head.
How do you install a handheld shower head?
Installing a handheld shower head is actually quite simple, and can be accomplished by nearly anyone — even if they don’t consider themselves to be very handy. They can easily be installed in a matter of minutes with little to no mess. The first step in installing a handheld shower head is to remove the old shower head. You can do this by twisting the head in a counterclockwise motion until it comes off the shower arm. Next, clean any rust or mineral deposits, old tape, or leftover sealant from the shower arm threads before wrapping Teflon tape two or three times around the threads of the shower arm in a clockwise direction. Press the tape into the threads, then screw the hand-held shower mount onto the shower arm and hand-tighten. Connect the shower hose to the mount and to the handheld shower head, hand tightening the connections. Place the handheld shower head in the mount and turn the water on to test for leaks.
How do you replace a handheld shower head hose?
If your handheld shower head hose begins to leak from a hole or crack, you’ll want to replace it. You may also want to replace the hose for a longer or shorter option. In either case, you’ll need to unscrew the current hose from both the mount and the shower head. Then, you can simply screw in the new hose and you’ll be good to go.
How high should a shower head (or holder) be?
A shower head (or holder) should be mounted around 78 inches from the bottom of the floor. That said, there is no standard or uniform shower height and different contractors will place shower arms at different heights. The height of the shower arm coming out of your wall will determine how high your shower head will be. Many handheld shower head mounts do, however, feature a pivoting design that allows you to adjust the angle of spray when the head is mounted in the cradle.
Other Handheld Shower Heads We Reviewed
Top Pick
Delta 7-Spray Touch Clean Hand Held Shower Head
Powerful spray, a choice of 7 spray patterns, and a lifetime warranty make this a smart choice$46.55 ($1.62 / oz)
We looked at 20 other handheld shower heads. Even though they didn’t make our 5 best handheld shower heads list, they’re the best of the rest and each is still a great option for your bathroom. The information you’ll need to compare each one is included with the listing.
- High Pressure Handheld Shower Heads
- Massaging Handheld Shower Heads
- Handheld Shower and Showerhead Combos
High Pressure Handheld Shower Heads
YOO.MEE High Pressure Handheld Shower Head
This high pressure handheld shower head boasts a choice of three different spray patterns, and comes complete with all required mounting and installation components.
Key Features:
- Available in a choice of finishes
- Includes a 1-year warranty
- Silicone rubber jet nozzles help to prevent mineral build-up
This high pressure handheld shower head boasts a selection of 5 different spray options, and comes complete with an ergonomic grip handle and angle-adjustable brass swivel ball bracket to provide the perfect angle.
Key Features:
- Fits any standard shower arm
- Tool-free installation
- Includes a lifetime warranty
HotelSpa High-Pressure 7-Setting Handheld Shower Head
This high pressure handheld shower head boasts a choice of 7 spray settings, and comes complete with a pause function to help cut down on water consumption.
Key Features:
- Angle-adjustable mount
- Rub-clean jets for convenient cleanup
- Includes a lifetime warranty
Chrider Handheld Shower Head with Hose
This high pressure handheld shower head boasts a selection of 5 different spray patterns, and tool-free installation for added ease and convenience.
Key Features:
- Angle-adjustable mount
- Includes a lifetime warranty
- Flow rate of 4 GPM
Waterpik High Pressure 5-Mode Power Spray Shower Head
This high pressure handheld shower head boasts a choice of 5 different spray patterns, and makes it convenient to bathe children, pets, and those who require assistance with ease.
Key Features:
- Available in a choice of finishes
- Includes a 5-foot long flexible shower hose
- Rub-clean, anti-clog shower nozzles
AquaDance Giant 5″ 6-Setting All Chrome High Pressure Hand Held Shower Head
This high pressure handheld shower head boasts a selection of 6 different spray patterns, and is available in a number of configurations to suit any needs.
Key Features:
- Ergonomic grip handle
- Includes 5-foot long flexible reinforced hose
- Tool-free installation
Wassern High Pressure Handheld Shower Head
This high pressure handheld shower head boasts a choice of 7 different spray patterns, and comes complete with an extra long hose for added convenience.
Key Features:
- Ergonomic grip handle
- Angle-adjustable mount
- Touch-clean spray nozzles
Massaging Handheld Shower Heads
Moen Engage Six-Function Sprayhead Handshower Showerhead
This massaging handheld shower head boasts a selection of 6 different spray patterns, and comes complete with a magnetic docking system which makes removing and using this handheld shower head a breeze.
Key Features:
- Available in a choice of finishes
- Includes a lifetime warranty
- CSA, ASME, and CEC compliant
This massaging handheld shower head boasts a choice of 5 different spray patterns, and comes complete with an extra long flexible shower hose. It offers universal connectivity for use in any shower.
Key Features:
- Tool-free installation
- Includes a lifetime warranty
- Pause function for saving water
ShowerMaxx Luxury Spa Series Hand Held Shower Head
This massaging handheld shower head boasts a selection of 6 different spray patterns, and includes a water-saving trickle function to help cut down on water usage.
Key Features:
- Available in a choice of finishes
- Anti-clogging, self-cleaning spray jets
- Includes a lifetime warranty
G-Promise High Pressure Showerhead Shower Kit
This massaging handheld shower head boasts a choice of 6 different spray patterns, and is made from solid brass for added durability and longevity.
Key Features:
- Available in a choice of finishes
- Extra long, super flexible stainless steel hose
- Includes a 10-year warranty
HotelSpa 7-setting AquaCare Series Spiral Handheld Shower Head
This massaging handheld shower head boasts a selection of 7 different spray patterns, and is available in a number of different configurations to suit any bathroom needs.
Key Features:
- Rub-clean jets for convenient cleanup
- Tool-free installation
- Includes a lifetime warranty
ETL 26781 White Body Spa Oxygenics Shower
This massaging handheld shower head boasts an easy to use twist operation, which moves the spray from hard to soft with ease.
Key Features:
- Includes a lifetime warranty
- Increases water’s oxygen content
- Includes a 5-foot long flexible hose
Waterpik Powerpulse Massage Hand Held Shower Head
This massaging handheld shower head boasts a choice of 7 different spray patterns, and comes complete with a 5-foot long flexible metal hose.
Key Features:
- Includes a lifetime warranty
- Flow rate of 2.5 GPM
- Anti-clog spray nozzles
Handheld Shower and Showerhead Combos
Aquadance by HotelSpa 24-Setting Slimline Showerhead and Hand Shower Combo
This handheld shower and showerhead combo boasts a selection of 24 full and combined water flow patterns, and includes an angle-adjustable overhead bracket for getting just the right spray point.
Key Features:
- Comes complete with a 5-foot long super flexible chrome-finish hose
- Includes a 10-year warranty
- Rub-clean jets for convenient cleanup
Delta In2ition H2Okinetic 5-Setting Two-in-One Handshower Showerhead
This massaging handheld shower head boasts a choice of 5 different spray patterns, and features a 2-in-1 design for added value and convenience.
Key Features:
- Available in a choice of finishes
- Meets WaterSense standards for water conservation
- Fits any standard shower arm
DreamSpa 3-way Rainfall Shower-Head and Handheld Shower
This massaging handheld shower head boasts a selection of 8 different spray patterns, and is available in a number of different configurations to suit any bathroom needs.
Key Features:
- Comes complete with a 5-foot long super flexible stainless steel hose
- Includes a lifetime warranty
- Tool-free installation
Ana Bath 5 Function Handheld Shower and Shower Head Combo
This massaging handheld shower head boasts a choice of 5 different spray patterns, and features a unique anti-clog design that cuts down on cleaning frequency.
Key Features:
- Available in a choice of finishes
- Choice of hose lengths available
- Ergonomic handle
AquaStar Elite High-Pressure 6-setting Luxury Spa Hand Shower
This massaging handheld shower head boasts a selection of 6 different spray patterns, and comes complete with Microban antimicrobial anti-clog jets to help provide more power.
Key Features:
- Comes complete with a 5-foot long pressure-reinforced stainless steel hose
- Available in a choice of configurations
- Includes a lifetime warranty
CLOFY 30-Setting Handheld Shower Head Shower Faucet
This massaging handheld shower head boasts a choice of 28 full and combined water flow patterns, and comes complete with a flexible, double-reinforced stainless steel hose with dual buckle.
Key Features:
- Rub-clean jets for added convenience
- Scratch-, corrosion-, and tarnish-resistant finish
- Includes a 10 year warranty
